8th Wall already provides frictionless WebAR experiences to a massive audience and the company’s most recent update makes it even better. The new iOS 14.3 update features camera access to WKWebView, allowing for WebAR experiences to now work in all major iOS apps, including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn and Chrome. The update allows WebAR experiences built on the 8th Wall platform to be easily discovered and reach the 728 million iPhone users around the world.

The Smithsonian has 19 world-class museums, galleries, gardens, and even a zoo. But due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the museums and galleries remain closed. However, the Smithsonian have created a virtual way for visitors to see the Smithsonian, with augmented reality. 

Billions can now escape Zoom fatigue by beaming holographic teammates right into their living room with a single tap

PTC’s Vuforia Expert Capture Augmented Reality software, allows processes to be recorded, edited in the cloud and then viewed in other locations through Microsoft HoloLens’ wearable technology. The software was initially developed for companies to teach processes to new employees, however, a new use was found during the pandemic. PTC worked with VentilatorChallengeUK Consortium to assist in the training of hundreds of frontline workers to manufacture ventilators at different sites across the country.

In this week's weekly round up of Augmented Reality news, we look at The Good Crisp Company’s AR Santa to spread Christmas cheer, HBO’s AR campaign for the second series of ‘His Dark Materials’ as well as NYX Professional Makeup’s AR shopping experience. 

NYX Professional Makeup has launched a multi-platform marketing campaign to promote the release of their Spring 2021 product collection, which features an augmented reality pop-up shop and a virtual concert by singer-songwriter Bebe Rexha. The AR store is powered by Snapchat, allowing consumers to dive into a fully immersive augmented reality shopping experience within the Triller app, including a virtual try-on and games to play.

The Northampton Borough Council has launched an augmented reality app for residents, which allows them to explore their town through an interactive and immersive experience.

HBO has recently collaborated with Verizon Media on a campaign to engage consumers and promote the second season of the fantasy series, ‘His Dark Materials’, which launched November 16 by utilising Augmented Reality advertising to reach a wider audience and create an immersive experience for consumers.